Light the wood burner on chilly evenings and bask in the sunshine on warm days. Up to six guests are welcome at this three-bedroom, stone cottage in tranquil Acton, on the Isle of Purbeck. Take one dog with you and enjoy rural hikes from your own front door; follow a path for 1 mile to the spectacular Jurassic Coast.
Open the front door to this inviting 19th-century cottage, with its flagstone floors and exposed stonework, and step into the welcoming lounge. Stoke up the wood burner and settle down to watch TV. Or, take your book through to the kitchen/diner instead; at dinnertime serve straight up from the kitchen, with its electric oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher and fridge with an ice compartment. Find a washing machine and tumble dryer in the utility room. Follow steep, cottage-style stairs up to two first-floor, bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with a king-size bed and en-suite shower room, with WC. There is also a family bathroom, with a shower over the bath and WC. Climb another cottage-style staircase to the attic, ideal for children, with its twin beds and low ceilings. Spill out into the split-level garden to light the BBQ. Dine out here and play games with the children. Find a courtyard garden to the front of the house and a grassed parking area nearby.
Drive 3 miles into Swanage for a lively seaside experience. Spend hours on the sandy beach, swim in the sea and see the Victorian pier. Head 5 miles to Studland Bay, with its beautiful beaches and areas of unspoiled dunes. Alternatively, visit Corfe Castle, 4 miles away, with its historic ruins, independent shops and selection of cafes and restaurants.